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What is Host Home/Companion Care?
Host Home/Companion Care is a service option within the Texas HCS Program where an adult with intellectual or developmental disabilities lives in a qualified provider’s home.
The provider offers daily support, supervision, skill‑building, transportation, and a safe, family‑centered environment.
This model allows individuals to live in a real home — not a facility — where they can experience stability, dignity, and meaningful connection.
Who qualifies for Host Home/Companion Care placement?
To qualify for Host Home/Companion Care, an individual must be enrolled in the Texas HCS Program and have Host Home/Companion Care listed as an authorized residential service in their approved Individual Plan of Care (IPC).
Individuals who are not enrolled in HCS must contact their Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority (LIDDA) to learn about eligibility and the HCS interest list.
Submitting an inquiry to our agency does not enroll someone in HCS and does not guarantee placement — but we are always here to guide families through the process with clarity and compassion.
Can the individual and family participate in choosing the Host Home Provider?
Yes. Individual choice is one of the most important parts of the placement process.
Families, legally authorized representatives, and service coordinators are encouraged to participate in:
• Reviewing potential providers
• Meeting households
• Asking questions
• Visiting homes
A placement only moves forward when the individual, family, and provider all feel comfortable and compatible.
How are Host Home Providers screened and approved?
All prospective Host Home Providers must meet HHSC and agency qualifications before placement.
The approval process includes:
• Criminal‑history checks
• Employability‑registry checks
• Sex‑offender‑registry checks
• Nurse Aide Registry checks
• State and federal exclusion checks
Providers must also complete references, required training, documentation, a home review, and an approved backup‑care plan.
After placement, the home and provider remain subject to ongoing monitoring and periodic reviews to ensure safety, stability, and quality of care.
Does Medicaid pay for Host Home/Companion Care and room and board?
Medicaid covers Host Home/Companion Care services for individuals enrolled in the HCS Program.
Room and board are not covered by Medicaid.
Families typically pay room and board directly to the Host Home Provider at a rate set by the HCS Program.
How long does the Host Home placement process take?
There is no fixed timeline for Host Home placement.
Timing depends on:
• HCS enrollment and authorization
• Completion of referral information
• The individual’s needs and preferences
• Availability of a compatible Host Home Provider
• Required screenings and home reviews
• Meetings between everyone involved
• Final service‑plan coordination
We never rush a placement simply because a home is available.
Taking time to evaluate compatibility supports safety, individual choice, satisfaction, and long‑term placement stability — which is always our priority.
How do I become a Host Home Provider with your agency?
Becoming a Host Home Provider begins with a conversation.
Providers must:
• Meet HHSC and agency qualifications
• Complete background, employability, and exclusion checks
• Participate in required training
• Establish an approved backup‑care plan
• Pass a home review
Once approved, providers are added to our network and considered for placements based on compatibility, availability, and individual choice.
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